Two-thirds of Americans have experienced a mental health problem in the last year, and one in four Americans say work is a source of anxiety*. Employee surveys confirm that City of Portland employees and their families commonly struggle with mental health challenges. It can happen to anyone, yet people living with mental health challenges often feel stigmatized or shame and don’t seek help. We want to change the conversation and bring this hidden problem out into the light.  Everyone deserves to feel the sunshine and know they are supported by their workplace.

Employees and their family members who need mental health or substance abuse services should have the support they need to find help. In support of this goal, the City has waived co-pays for in-network mental health and substance abuse services that are medically necessary during the next 2019-2020 plan year! 

Not sure if you need to focus on your mental health?  Take the confidential Whole Life Directions survey HERE (use access code "City of Portland"), offered by Cascade Centers, our Employee Assistance Program provider.  More mental health resources available at Cascade Centers.

Manager trainings are under way to help recognize and address mental health challenges in the workplace. Visit our Manager/Supervisor Resources page for more information.

To support this focus, City Strong offerings include skill building on managing stress, developing healthy habits, building emotional intelligence, setting boundaries, finding purpose, goal setting, being creative, improving relationships, making connections, and how to select and engage with a mental health therapist when needed.

Keep an eye out for an event coming to your bureau soon or visit the web page for on-demand information, videos, challenges, and group offerings. Your work team can schedule a lunch-and-learn or interactive wellness presentation at your next meeting on topics including: 

~ Sleep for Better Health
~ Mindful Eating
~ Rest & Relax
~ Biometric Screening with InBody assessments
~ Worksite Workouts

City Strong is a City benefit that is offered as part of the Occupational Health and Well-being program and available to all employees across every bureau.

The City Strong team can answer your questions about being your best self and support you in reaching your personal health goals:

• Feel more energized

• Eat Healthier

• Gain fitness

• Manage stress

• Improve your mood

• Build social networks

• Manage weight

• Live with less pain

• Make healthy lifestyle choices

Convenient educational opportunities, challenges and supportive resources will be available in the coming weeks to help you be your healthy best!

 Questions? 
Contact Joel Michels, Occupational Health and Well-being Program Manager 
503-823-5238, joel.michels@portlandoregon.gov

* Source:  IPSOS 2017